Story by Makenna Bomke. Photos by Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
May 16th, the stage at The Star in Frisco was not just full of athletes and celebrities, but hope, possibility, and courage. The 2025 Southwest Youth of the Year Celebration honored inspiring teens whose service, leadership, academics, and commitment to wellness illustrate the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
These teens—each a finalist for the coveted titles of Southwest Youth of the Year and Southwest Military Youth of the Year—represent the region’s finest. This impactful evening served as a platform to give voice and share the messages of young people dedicated to creating positive change.
Hosted by Emmy-nominated TV personality Amy Vanderoef, the event brought together leaders, mentors, and champions of the community to highlight their stories.
“This celebration is about more than recognition,” said Jim Clark, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “It’s about acknowledging the strength, resilience, and hope that lives in each of these young leaders.”
Throughout the evening, guests were treated to:
The narratives of the finalists represented the organization’s continuous goal: to provide all young people with the resources and opportunities they need to reach their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Through Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s flagship youth recognition program, Youth of the Year, these young individuals have demonstrated academic success, a passion for volunteerism, and a fierce commitment to leading by example within their Clubs and neighborhoods.
The ceremony also acknowledged the continued partnership with Kohl’s Cares, the program title sponsor, that supports mental health and trauma-informed care for youth across the country. As the night went on, the message was clear: these young voices aren’t only the future but they’re the present. Guided by mentors, community heroes, and Boys & Girls Clubs of the Southwest, these teens are walking boldly ahead with courage and conviction and are ready to take the lead.
